Amtrak bedrooms are the most spacious accommodations available on long-distance trains, providing twice the space of a roomette. These private rooms feature a sofa, an extra seat, two sleeping berths, a sink, and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. Additionally, meals come with your room!
Though upgrading from a roomette can be expensive, I’ve noticed that bedrooms are sometimes priced similarly or slightly higher. The additional space is perfect for solo travelers like me and couples like my parents, who appreciate the convenience and comfort of a bedroom during their trips.
This article provides all the information you need about Amtrak bedrooms, featuring interactive photos and tips to help you decide whether to upgrade. Grab your favorite beverage, and let’s dive in!
There are two types of Amtrak sleeper cars.
Amtrak operates two types of long-distance trains, Superliners and Viewliners, with similar bedroom layouts. I’ve combined this information into one article, while separate articles are available for roomettes.
Amtrak’s Superliner (bi-level)
Superliner sleeper cars are bi-level, offering more rooms than Viewliners.
The Superliners sleeper cars feature five bedrooms, fourteen roomettes, a family “bedroom,” and an accessible room.
The top level of the sleeper cars holds all the bedrooms and is on the same level as the dining car. You only need to use the stairs when you board or wish to leave the train.
The Auto Train provides various sleeping accommodations, including sleeper cars like transdorms and bedroom cars.
Superliner bedrooms are designated by letters, whereas numbers identify the other rooms. Bedroom A is 10 inches narrower and is situated next to the stairs. Bedrooms B and C create a suite, while Bedroom D is a standard bedroom.
Auto Train | California Zephyr |
City of New Orleans | Coast Starlight |
Empire Builder | Southwest Cheif |
Sunset Limited | Texas Eagle |
Viewliner (single-level)
Superliner sleeper cars are bi-level, offering more bedrooms than Viewliners.
The Superliners sleeper cars contain five bedrooms, fourteen roomettes, a family “bedroom,” and an accessible room.
Bedrooms are on the upper level of these cars, which is nice because you can go from car to car on that level. You only have to go downstairs to get off the train.
These cars have a few variants, such as transdorm or bedroom cars on the Auto Train.
On Superliner sleepers, bedroom A is 10″ narrower and closer to the door at the end of the ca. Bedroom E is next to the stairs. Bedrooms B and C form the bedroom suite, similar to hotels.
Understanding Amtrak Bedrooms
The bedrooms feature large exterior windows, and the viewers have an extra upper set. Both include interior windows overlooking the hallway, creating a more spacious feel for the car.
All windows come with curtains that block light and ensure privacy.
The bedrooms feature multiple lights, including room, reading, and nightlights.
There is always at least one outlet available in the room for charging your devices, so I suggest packing an extension cord for train travel.
Furthermore, a small closet is included for storage and hanging items and has several hangers.
The sizes of Amtrak bedroom accommodations and beds
Amtrak bedrooms generally measure 6.5 feet by 7.5 feet and provide various amenities.
The beds or berths in this room are perpendicular to the tracks, while the roomettes are parallel.
- The lower berth measures 3.3 feet by 6.3 feet
- The upper berth, which requires a ladder, measures 2.3 feet by 6.2 feet.
Restroom and shower facilities
While the bathroom in an Amtrak bedroom might be small, it efficiently accommodates both a shower and a toilet.
Yes, you heard correctly! Both are in the same compact space.
In addition, the bedroom has a sink, a trash can, a medicine cabinet, and storage space. Fresh towels and washcloths are also available outside the restroom.
However, if your travel companion uses the in-room facility, you can always use the public restrooms in the Superliners and the newer Viewliner sleeper cars.
If you run out of towels, feel free to talk to your car attendant, as they can assist you in getting more.
Seating and Sleeping
The central area of the bedroom features a sofa and a chair, with a fold-out table positioned between them.
At night, the sofa transforms into a lower berth while the upper berth folds down for your companion.
The lower berth could accommodate two people sleeping on the lower bunk, but you must cuddle up closely. A ladder assists passengers in reaching the upper berth.
I am about 6’2″ and just fit lengthwise in the upper bunk. The upper bed is slightly shorter than a lower roomette bed, but the width provides extra space. There is just enough room on the upper bunk to move around, but you cannot sit up while in it.
Packing Note
It’s best to travel light on the train. Luggage can clutter the space, so if you’re traveling alone, use the upper bunk for storage.
What are Amtrak bedrooms like?
That’s a great question! I hope a few photos will help answer it. These photos show Superliner bedrooms, but the Viewliner cars are pretty similar.
Daytime
The link below offers information about Superliner cars, similar to Viewliners. It may also be helpful for anyone interested in Viewliners.
Use your mobile device or the mouse to view the different angles.
What is included with Amtrak bedroom reservations?
These rooms provide more than just additional space on the train!
“Complimentary” meals
All planned meals are considered “free” or included with your ticket.
All two-night trains, plus the Silver Meteor and Auto Train, have traditional dining in the dining car.
The other Viewliner trains, plus the City of New Orleans and Texas Eagle running between Chicago, IL, and San Antonio, TX, provide flex meals in the cafe or lounge car/dining car on the Lake Shore Limited and Crescent.
You can eat in the dining car or have meals brought to your room by your car attendant.
Amtrak serves coffee and juice in your car at the coffee station in the morning. If you’d like coffee during the day, head to the dining or café car.
At the Station Services
Several stations feature lounges to relax while waiting for your first train, during a layover, or while waiting for other transportation.
Many larger staffed stations offer some red cap service, which includes people who assist you in reaching the train using a motor cart.
Depending on the station and the equipment available, there may be a delay, mainly if it is busy.
Locating your Amtrak bedroom in a sleeping car
Amtrak Sleeper cars are usually found at the front or back of the train. Their placement can vary depending on the route and season.
However, there are exceptions, such as the Empire Builder and the Lake Shore Limited, where the trains split into separate sections to reach different destinations. In these cases, the sleeper cars are arranged accordingly.
Typically, the bedroom side of the car faces the center of the train. However, a sleeper car may occasionally get rotated to face the opposite direction.
Viewliner (East Coast single-level cars)
The Viewliner bedrooms are near the boarding door vestibule. When you board the sleeper from that end of the car, walk past the accessible room, and you will find both bedrooms. You’ll know you’ve gone too far if you see the roomette hallway.
If you board from the other end of the car, walk through the roomette corridor until you reach a bend. The bedrooms are there.
Superliner Sleeper (Bi-Level)
The bedrooms in Superliner cars are on the upper level; you enter the car on the lower level and must walk up narrow stairs.
Deluxe Sleeper
Deluxe Sleepers are available only on the Auto Train; you board on the lower level and must climb stairs.
Locking your bedroom door
Locking your door is easy but can be tricky the first time. I have a video showing you how to do it, plus tips and tricks for leaving your room.
Keep in mind that room doors can only be locked from the inside.
Navigating the train
Sleeper cars are next to the dining car for most trains, followed by the cafe or sightseer lounge. However, there are exceptions, such as the Empire Builder’s 27/28 section, which has the sleeper cars at the end of the train, and the Boston sections 448/449 of the Lake Shore Limited.
Keep track of how many cars you are from the dining car to avoid getting in the wrong car. Even seasoned travelers can experience this.
With Superliner trains, keep two things in mind. To move between cars, you need to be on the upper level, and if you want to board or disembark from the train, you need to be on the lower level.
There is one restroom on the upper level and several downstairs near the shower. All bedrooms are on the upper level. In most cases, to explore the train or visit a dining car, you exit your room, turn left, and remember that you may need to walk through one or more cars.
In Viewliners, everything is on one level. Sometimes, you board or disembark in an adjacent car. You typically exit your room and turn right to reach a food car. You may also have to walk through one or more cars to reach your destination.
Special request for booking an Amtrak bedroom
Each car features two bedrooms that can be converted into a suite, resembling hotel rooms with connecting interior doors. If necessary, you can book a bedroom for three people; however, two individuals will need to share the lower bed, which will be cozy.
For special reservations, please call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-Rail.
Reserving an Amtrak Bedroom
Various Methods for Booking
Amtrak provides various options for making reservations based on your preference.
- You can book at their staffed stations in person
- Call 1-800-USA-Rail
- Reserve electronically via the Amtrak website or app.
- The Auto Train, a specific number, is available for reservations.
It’s best to choose the booking method that suits you. I prefer using the website or app, but I call when I need to make changes or special requests, such as asking for rooms close to each other. Calling Amtrak may be the best option if you’d like someone to guide you through the process and answer questions.
If accommodations are available on the trains, you can usually adjust your trip. However, a price difference may result in a refund or an extra charge, depending on the circumstances.
Remember that you can cancel your trip without a penalty within 24 hours of purchasing. If you plan to share a bedroom with others, ensure all passengers are included in the same reservation when booking. Amtrak will not assign you a room with someone you don’t know.
Your Ticket
You can print your ticket or use the ticket via the app or phone wallet.
The Information on Your Ticket
Each train ticket includes the train’s name and number, the sleeper cars, and their respective room numbers. The bedrooms are labeled with letters rather than numbers, which you can find on the door frame of your room. The car number, made up of four digits, is on the door you enter, with the first two digits indicating the route number.
Tips for Booking Alternatives to Amtrak Bedrooms
I have a suggestion that might seem unusual for this article, but I’m sharing it nonetheless.
If you’re traveling with someone else, booking a bedroom might be an option, but it could cost more than you want. Consider reserving two roomettes instead. While smaller roomettes lack a bathroom, booking two gives each person more personal space, possibly at a lower cost. This option also avoids climbing onto the upper bunk in a roomette, which can be more challenging than using the steps in a bedroom.
When you book online, rooms are assigned randomly. However, if you want a specific room or would like to request rooms near each other, you can call Amtrak or visit a staffed station to inquire about the possibility. The earlier you call, the better your chances of securing your preference. While getting rooms close to each other isn’t guaranteed, it’s worth a shot.
If your rooms end up in different cars, or even if they’re nearby, you can always gather in one room during the day for convenience.
If you book two roomettes to save on costs, keep an eye on the price of bedrooms. If the price drops, you can change your accommodations. Just be sure to check Amtrak’s current booking policies for any fees related to modifying your reservation before making changes.
Boarding the Train
When it’s time to board your train, there are several steps you can take to ensure a smoother process:
- Pay attention to announcements at staffed stations for important boarding information.
- Have your tickets ready and check which car you need to board.
- As you approach the train, conductors and onboard staff will help you find the correct car. If you see the sleeper car passing by, keep an eye on it and walk in that direction.
Please check the button below for more detailed tips on boarding Amtrak trains.
When in your Amtrak bedroom
When you are on the train, your car attendant can help you familiarize yourself with your room, inform you about meal times, and prepare or put away your beds when necessary. Use the call button in your room if you need to reach them.
You are welcome to walk around the train, within reason. If the train features a Sightseer Lounge, you can visit it to enjoy the view as the scenery passes by. Additionally, the cafe car, situated on the lower level of the lounge car, and the dining car are also accessible. Please note that the dining car is open only during meals and does not offer seating outside those hours.
While you may walk through the coach cars, please refrain from sitting in those seats, as they are reserved for other passengers who will be boarding at later stops. Feel free to explore, but remember to leave those seats available for their assigned passengers.
Tipping your car attendant is standard if you receive good service, with tips usually ranging from $5 to $20 daily. The amount you decide to tip should mirror the quality of service you receive and align with your budget. Find out more about tipping on Amtrak.
Packing Ideas for Amtrak Bedrooms
Here are a few things you can bring to enhance your trip!
Entertainment and electronics
There are many ways to entertain yourself while on the train. You can always look out the window, chat with others, spend time with your travel buddy if you have one, take a nap, read, and more. Here are some additional entertainment ideas for your Amtrak adventures.
Don’t forget to bring your charger cables and an extension cord, as they’re essential!
Refreshments
I pack enough snacks for each leg of my journey in a small reusable bag that fits easily into my luggage. This method helps me save space and provides a great reason to explore the city where my flight has a layover.
A refillable water bottle offers a convenient and environmentally friendly way to stay hydrated while saving money.
You are permitted to consume alcohol only in your room or a friend’s room. If you wish to drink in other areas of the train, you must buy beverages in the cafe or dining car. If you’d like a post-meal drink, purchase it in the dining car and return it to your room.
Sleeping
Eyeshades are beneficial for individuals sensitive to nighttime light. Curtains can also block sunlight and streetlights. Platform lights may be the same height as your window, letting a small amount of light enter the room.
Earplugs are beneficial for individuals who require quiet at night. Engineers must sound the horn all night to ensure safety and comply with FRA regulations, so you may hear it more frequently than you realize. However, the sound of the horn helps me fall asleep.
Sleep aids can assist individuals struggling to fall asleep because of excitement or environmental changes.
Etiquette for Amtrak Bedrooms
Basic manners are essential when traveling on an Amtrak train. However, a few extra considerations exist for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
First, please be mindful of your volume and use indoor voices since the walls are thin, and your neighbors can hear you. Keep the volume of your electronic devices low, including phone alerts, especially at night.
It’s important to show respect to your car attendant.
There is one attendant for each sleeper car, and they do their best to assist everyone. They may become busy during meals and bedtime, so please be patient if you require assistance.
Tipping is customary, though not mandatory, on Amtrak trains. However, exceptional service is always appreciated.
Finally, pay attention to announcements and prepare for your stop, ensuring a smooth transition from the train to your destination.
Kev’s Experience with Amtrak Bedrooms
Throughout the years, I’ve had the opportunity to experience Amtrak bedrooms on various routes, and they’ve made my journeys much more memorable. As a solo traveler, the additional space is a luxury I genuinely appreciate, especially on longer trips where stretching out and having my private bathroom makes a significant difference.
One of my favorite bedroom trips was on the Capitol Limited. My parents joined me on that journey and loved the additional comfort. The bedroom provided them space to relax, share a cozy atmosphere, and enjoy the convenience of a private restroom nearby. It’s an excellent choice for couples or anyone looking for more privacy.
Recently, I stayed in a bedroom aboard the Floridian because it was cheaper than a roomette when I first booked it!
While bedrooms tend to be pricier than roomettes, I’ve discovered deals that make them surprisingly affordable—or even the same price! The upgrade was so minor on one trip that it was an easy decision. My advice? Always compare prices for all accommodation options when booking—you might get lucky.
Whether traveling alone, with a partner or as a family, the bedrooms can make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
Summary of Amtrak Bedrooms
Wow, that’s a lot of information, and some of it may make more sense once you embark on your first trip. Doing research, like you did with this article, can help keep your expectations realistic.
I suggest booking your tickets in advance, being prepared at boarding time, sitting back and relaxing, listening to the announcements, allowing staff to assist you, being kind and courteous, and appreciating the beautiful scenery and the adventure.
Amtrak bedrooms offer a fantastic way to explore the USA, ensuring comfort and essential travel amenities. I hope you have a great time, and if I am of help, please let me know!
Let me know if I missed anything or if you have any questions!
Check out these articles for more information.
Safe Travels.
Kev
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Sleeping question: The bunks in a roomette are parallel to the tracks and those in a room are perpendicular to the tracks. A friend said that he found the motion in bunks that were perpendicular to be harder to sleep in because he rolled fore and aft when the train speeded up & slowed down. Have you noticed this? I usually sleep very well on trains, but have only slept in roomettes.
Thanks, Karin
Hi Karin,
I heard some people have that problem, but that is not something that issues. My issue is when the train stops at a station because I wake up due to lack of motion. I guess we all have some sleep/motion issues. A sleep aid tends to help smooth things out for me as well. I wonder if it depends on how you sleep, I sleep on my tummy, which could be why I have fewer issues than back sleepers.
Safe Travels!
Kev
We are booked on the Zephyr for this fall and have 2 connecting bedrooms, room D and room E. Will the E room be hearing a lot of noise from people going up and down the stairs? Thanks!
None of the walls on a train are thick, so some noise bleeds through from the hallway and stairs. So may hear some noise, but the only people going up and down should be the people in your car and the Amtrak staff. And since there is a bathroom upstairs, that reduces some of that traffic at night. During the day it may be more noisy. Unless your neighbor is a heavy snorer, you might want to put the light sleeper in the inside room.
I hope this helps, feel free to reach out if you have other questions!
Safe Travels!
Kev
Thanks, Kev. I appreciate the response. Do you know how far apart the two accessible rooms would be from one another? Besides the reduced cost, I really do think I had the right idea to just go with the one Accessible and the Family. That way, we are all on the same lower level car. As mentioned. I use a mobility device and will be with my husband and child. Also my adult non-disabled brother, companion to my elderly mother who is somewhat mobility challenged herself (but who does not necessarily require an Accessible room, just lower level]. I think the AR and FBdrm should accommodate the 5 of us fairly well. Hopefully! 🙂
The accessible rooms are in separate cars, so a whole car length apart, and to go from one to another, you need to go upstairs, go to the next car, and back down.
You may need to have your meals brought to you; one person from your party may need to get them and bring them back, or the car attendant. I would chat with them about the best way to do that.